BUSINESS across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion are being urged to speak out about the challenges they face as local Senedd Member Paul Davies launches his ‘Big Business Conversation’ campaign.

The initiative aims to hear directly from businesses of all sizes, from sole traders and family-run enterprises to larger employers, about the pressures they are facing, the barriers holding them back and the support they need to grow and thrive.

The launch follows the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), published on October 8, which reveal:

• 72 per cent of UK businesses expressed concern about energy prices in late September, rising to 91 per cent in the accommodation and food services sector.

• 73 per cent of businesses were concerned about rising fuel prices.

• 28 per cent of trading businesses reported a fall in turnover in August, while 29 per cent identified economic uncertainty as a challenge affecting turnover in September.

The campaign will involve visits to businesses, alongside opportunities for business owners to participate in online advice surgeries and share their experiences directly.

Noting how businesses create jobs, support families, invest in our communities and keep our towns and villages thriving, Mr Davies said:

“I know from speaking to business owners across Ceredigion Penfro that many are under enormous pressure. Whether it's rising energy bills, business rates, employment costs or difficulties recruiting staff, the challenges are very real.”

“I'm increasingly hearing from hardworking business owners who feel that the pressures they face are simply not being understood by those making decisions.”

“That's why I'm launching the Big Business Conversation. I don't want to just talk about businesses. I want to talk to the people running them, understand what's keeping them awake at night and hear what needs to change.”

“Our rural economy faces particular challenges. Businesses here often have higher transport and operating costs, smaller local markets and seasonal fluctuations in trade. We need policies that recognise those realities rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

“I want to hear from everyone, whether you're running a small shop, a farm, a tourism business, a pub, a manufacturing company or you're self-employed.

“And importantly, this isn't just about listening. It's about turning those conversations into action. I want to take the evidence and experiences businesses share with me directly to the Welsh and UK Governments and challenge decision-makers to deliver the support our local economy needs.”

“We have some fantastic, innovative and ambitious businesses across Ceredigion Penfro. I want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed, invest and create jobs for the future.”

Through the campaign, Mr Davies will be seeking feedback on the impact of business rates, employment costs, energy prices, recruitment challenges and the wider pressures affecting business confidence and investment. His message to business owners: “Your voice matters, and I want to hear it.”

Businesses wishing to take part in the Big Business Conversation can complete the online survey via www.paul-davies.org.uk/campaigns/big-business-conversation, request a business visit or register their interest in an online advice surgery.